Cynic
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Main Entry: cyn·ic
Pronunciation: 'si-nik
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle French or Latin, Middle French cynique, from Latin cynicus, from
Greek kynikos, literally, like a dog, from kyn-, kyOn dog -- more at HOUND
Date: circa 1564
1: capitalized : an adherent of an ancient Greek school of philosophers
who held the view that virtue is the only good and that its essence lies in self-control
and independence
2 : a faultfinding captious critic; especially : one who believes that human
conduct is motivated wholly by self-interest
- cynicadjective
Main Entry: cyn·i·cal
Pronunciation: 'si-ni-k&l
Function: adjective
Date: 1584
1 : CAPTIOUS, PEEVISH
2 : having or showing the attitude or temper of a cynic;especially :
contemptuously distrustful of human nature and motives
cynical men who say that democracy cannot be honest and efficient -- F. D. Roosevelt>
- cyn·i·cal·ly/-k(&-)lE/ adverb
synonyms CYNICAL, MISANTHROPIC, PESSIMISTIC mean deeply distrustful.
CYNICAL implies having a sneering disbelief in sincerity or integrity cynical
about politicians' motives>. MISANTHROPIC suggests a rooted distrust and dislike of
human beings and their society misanthropic artist>.
PESSIMISTIC implies having a gloomy, distrustful view of life about the future>.
